Using Your Myers-Briggs Personality Type to Your Advantage

I think we can all agree that different personality types bring innovative ideas to the table. So why not use your strengths to your advantage in the hospital or in the classroom? I’ve shared with you all more than one occasion that I identify as an ESFJ. Now, I want to share with you a few tips on how I plan to use my strengths and be cautious of my weaknesses.

E = Extrovert

Outgoing: use this characteristic to facilitate communication with those around you, advocate for your patients, and speak your mind.

Enthusiastic: be careful not to dominate discussions or interrupt others in your enthusiasm to be involved in patient care.

Adaptable: use this characteristic to quickly integrate into teams and engage in learning processes.

S = Sensing

Capitalize on your ability to gather complete data and inform those around you on any new information you may uncover.

Be concise—realize that every single detail gathered is not always important to share.

F = Feeling

Compassionate and Empathetic: use these characteristics to shine with your patients; after all, we’re human, and compassion is so important in medicine.

Be careful not to get too emotionally involved in a patient’s case. Remember, your priority should be what’s best for the patient.

J = Judging

Organize: this skill can be used in multiple ways to ensure success.

Prepared: don’t be afraid to create a schedule or a list of what expectations you have for yourself to give you a sense of structure.

Punctual and reliable: submitting your work ahead of time or on time can make you a highly valuable team member.

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Avani

MS4 at University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Medicine

Avani discovered in the past three years of medical school that she is more than just a future physician. She loves traveling, advocating for patients and students, and serving as a leader. She has lived in Mississippi her entire life, and it has taught her true community.
Avani serves on Board of Trustees for Mississippi State Medical Association and Central Medical Society in addition to serving as the Southern Chair of the Organization of Student Representatives affiliated with the Association of American Medical Colleges. Outside of school, she enjoys nurturing friendships, spending time with family, meeting new people, public speaking, organizing events, and writing. A few other noteworthy passions of hers are adventure, cars, beauty, and fashion.

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